Rozier Arrested in Nationwide Gambling Probe

Federal authorities carried out a nationwide FBI takedown across 11 states that led to the arrest of more than 30 people, including current and former NBA figures such as Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups, in a probe of illegal sports betting and an alleged mafia-linked, technology-enabled rigged poker operation. Prosecutors allege two linked schemes: passing non-public injury and availability information to bettors to rig NBA prop bets, and running poker games that used cheating devices (marked cards, contact lenses, X-ray tables) that fleeced victims of millions. The indictment alleges Rozier conspired with associates to manipulate his performance and exit the March 23, 2023 Hornets game to benefit prop bets; Rozier has been arrested, placed on indefinite NBA leave, and his attorney denies wrongdoing. The NBA says it first learned of suspicious betting activity shortly after that March 2023 game and did not disclose the information to Miami before the Heat acquired Rozier in January 2024, prompting questions about the trade and potential remedies. Reporting about whether the league “quietly pulled” Rozier from internal communications was contested and partly walked back, and federal prosecutors cautioned the sweep is only the start of a broader investigation while defendants are presumed innocent.